Saving Iowa's oldest Black owned business.

We need your help.

My name is Joshua booth and I'm a local videographer. Up until January of 2021 I had not heard of Freda Long. Someone shared an article about her having the oldest black business in the cedar rapids area.

I knew instantly that I had to profile her and her business.

March of 2021 after interviewing her it was apparent that this video would have to be geared towards trying to save her business.

This footage set on my hard drive for over a year because life got busy. I decided to finish it as of last week. It couldn't have been better timing because when I went out this week to get updated video, I noticed quite a few bricks on the front missing and the sidewalk on the side has been closed.

I can't think of any other black business in the area that owns their own building and land.

This is not only important for our culture but even more so for Freda's family.

This is her legacy and passing it down to the next generation to keep that wealth in the family is critical.

Please watch this video. Contribute and share.

UPDATE:

The city will NOT fine them.

At the moment they won't consider them a nuisance.

Obviously the money collected here will help with repairs. 

I spoke with a contractor today that told me because of so many bricks being missing in the front it's likely because of water damage coming from having a flat roof. 

My is that we can get the roof and the outside fixed. I'm really hoping that a contractor, mason donate this work or donate a portion of it. 

(Please put Freda in the subject)

cashapp: cameraguy52241

zelle: [email redacted]